Executive Assistant to Director General

About the role

The Executive Assistant supports the Director General of IUCN, ensuring the office runs smoothly and efficiently across a global, decentralized secretariat. Acting as the first point of contact, the role demands high-level discretion, multicultural communication and coordination with internal and external stakeholders.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the Director General’s daily schedule, meeting arrangements, travel logistics and related documentation.
• Prepare and distribute agendas, minutes, progress reports and correspondence, ensuring timely follow‑up.
• Coordinate the DG’s participation in events, conferences, retreats and high‑level meetings, handling all logistical aspects.
• Maintain filing systems, contact lists, expense claims, petty cash and office supplies for the DG’s office.
• Draft letters, memoranda and informal translations between English, French and, when needed, Spanish.
• Collaborate with other IUCN unit assistants to ensure seamless information flow and administrative support.

Required profile

• Minimum seven years of relevant administrative experience, including at least five years as an Executive Assistant.
• Fluent written and spoken English and French; Spanish proficiency is an asset.
• Proven ability to handle confidential information with discretion and to work under pressure in a fast‑paced, multicultural environment.
• Swiss citizenship or a valid C, B or G work permit as required by local law.
• Strong analytical, research and problem‑solving skills with a proactive, self‑starting attitude.